The research based out of Poland found that after consuming pomegranate fruit juice, male rowers saw higher antioxidant capacity following strenuous exercise. Athletes who didn't consume pomegranate juice did not see the same benefits.

"The level of iron in the human body is affected not only by an adequate dietary intake of this element, but also by exercise-induce inflammation," write the study authors.

"The antioxidant potential of pomegranate fruit juice results from its high content of polphenols, especially proanthocyanidins."

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled experiment, researchers gathered nineteen members of the Polish Rowing Team. Ten of the athletes received 50ml of the standardised pomegranate every day for two months. Meanwhile the remaining nine were placed in a placebo group.

Following a 2000m test on an ergometer at the beginning and end of the project, scientists collected blood samples three times: before exercise, one minute after and the following day.

While results showed that total antioxidant capacity increased in the participants, unfortunately inflammatory markers showed no significant change. Further research is needed with the inclusion of non-professional athletes.

Alex PierottiAlex Pierotti is the Digital Content Editor for Men's Health Australia, with experience reporting on health, fitness and sport. With a Journalism degree from UNSW under his belt, he got his start working in TV, working on the live broadcast of the Intrust Super Shute Shield on 7TWO before making the switch to print and digital at Pacific Magazines.